The Legislature and Gov. Mark Dayton begin their final week of the 2014 session with a handful of high-profile issues on the agenda.

None, though, is more important to the St. Cloud area than passage of a statewide bonding package that includes $11.56 million for completion of the River's Edge Convention Center expansion.

The state funds will provide for a much-needed parking ramp, the last piece of a $30 million-plus expansion project the city chose to fund itself because previous Legislatures and governors couldn't resolve political bickering in a timely manner.

Proving that politics never seem to change, this session lawmakers are hung up on whether to abide by a bipartisan deal last session that would allow for a bonding package worth no more than $850 million.

To help facilitate the RECC project and break the partisan standoff, area voters should contact local GOP legislators and urge they vote for a bonding bill worth about $850 million that includes RECC funds. Their votes are key to providing the three-fifths majority bonding bills require from both houses.

Of those, only Dorholt — the lone DFLer — has clearly committed to supporting such terms. Pederson had indicated support earlier this session, but news reports last week indicated second thoughts.

The others have reserved support based on how the bonding process plays out.

Aside from bonding, the other major issues that must be decided are taxes and spending items linked to the remaining $600 million of the state's $1.2 billion surplus. Dayton and legislative leaders in both parties differ significantly on handling about $500 million of those funds.

They do agree on a tax-cut package worth about $100 million benefiting farmers, some local governments and property owners. They also want to help workers in nursing homes and similar positions. Beyond that, though, common ground is rare.

Given economic conditions, putting as much as possible into state reserves seems wise, followed by adjournment.

The Editorial Board

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